Traditional German Christmas Celebrations

This is another in our series of Christmas celebrations from around the world. We intend to continue publishing these throughout the coming year, so please look out for these.  

Germany is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and festive traditions, and Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year to experience this. 

From bustling Christmas markets to cherished family customs, German Christmas celebrations blend history, faith, and joy in unique ways. 

Here, we look into some of the most beloved traditions that make Christmas in Germany truly special.

Advent: A Time of Preparation

Christmas in Germany begins with Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Many German households display an Advent wreath (Adventskranz), typically made of evergreen branches and adorned with four candles. Each Sunday in Advent, a new candle is lit, often accompanied by prayers or carol singing.

Advent calendars (Adventskalender) are another cherished tradition. Originally designed to count down the days until Christmas, these calendars have evolved from simple paper designs to elaborate creations filled with chocolates, toys, or even small bottles of wine.

Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte)

Germany’s Christmas markets are world-famous, drawing visitors from across the globe. These markets, often held in town squares, are a feast for the senses. Stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, artisanal gifts, and festive foods create a magical atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy traditional treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Stollen (fruitcake), and roasted nuts. To ward off the winter chill, a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) is a must. Iconic markets such as those in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne are particularly popular.

Nikolaustag: St. Nicholas Day

On the night of 5th December, children place their shoes or boots outside their doors in anticipation of St. Nicholas’ (Nikolaus) visit. If they’ve been good, they wake to find their footwear filled with sweets, nuts, and small gifts. Naughty children, however, might receive a bundle of twigs from Krampus, Nikolaus’ mischievous companion.

Heiligabend: Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve (Heiligabend) is the highlight of the German Christmas season. Families come together for a festive meal, often featuring dishes like roast goose, carp, or fondue. In some regions, potato salad and sausages are the traditional fare.

After dinner, families gather around the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum), which is usually decorated with candles, baubles, and straw ornaments. It’s also common to sing carols and exchange gifts on this evening.

Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day

In Germany, both 25th and 26th December are public holidays. Christmas Day is usually spent with close family, while the Second Christmas Day (Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag) is often reserved for visiting extended family or friends. Traditional meals on these days might include roasted meats, dumplings, and red cabbage.

Epiphany: The Final Celebration

The Christmas season in Germany officially concludes on 6th January, Epiphany (Dreikönigstag). On this day, groups of children dressed as the Three Wise Men go door-to-door singing carols and blessing homes. They write the initials of the Magi (C+M+B) and the year above doorways, a practice believed to bring good fortune.

A Season of Joy and Reflection

German Christmas traditions are steeped in history and community spirit. Whether it’s the glow of candlelit trees, the warmth of Glühwein at a market stall, or the joy of family gatherings, these customs capture the essence of the festive season. For those lucky enough to experience Christmas in Germany, it’s a time of wonder, joy, and cherished memories.